Black Box LMC280 Series Fast Ethernet Industrial Media Converter - Single-Mode SC

Extend and protect your industrial network with the Black Box LMC280 Series Fast Ethernet Industrial Media Converter – Single-Mode SC. Built to bridge copper and fiber with reliability, this compact device delivers seamless 10/100Base-T(X) performance over a single-mode fiber link, enabling safe data transmission across demanding environments. Whether you’re connecting distant factory floors, remote machinery, or dispersed control cabinets, the LMC280 Series provides a rugged, plug-and-play solution that reduces downtime and increases network reach.

• Unmanaged, plug-and-play operation — The LMC280 Series is designed for rapid deployment with no complex configuration. Install, connect, and your network is extended to fiber without the need for an IT specialist. This simplicity helps minimize maintenance overhead while maximizing uptime in harsh industrial settings.
• 10/100Base-T(X) to single-mode fiber conversion — Convert copper Ethernet signals to fiber with a single-mode SC port for reliable data transmission over longer distances. This enables you to push network boundaries beyond the reach of traditional copper cabling while preserving throughput and performance.
• Industrial-grade rugged design — Built to endure factory floors, outdoor cabinets, and challenging environments, the LMC280 Series features robust materials and construction that resist dust, vibration, and temperature variations typical in industrial facilities.
• Fiber connectivity with SC interface — The SC fiber port offers a secure, field-proven connection standard for high-quality fiber optic links. This interface supports stable, interference-free communication even in electrically noisy environments where copper cables are prone to EMI.
• Compact, flexible deployment — With a compact form factor and flexible mounting options, the LMC280 Series fits neatly into elevated cabinets, equipment racks, or on-wall installations, enabling scalable network extensions without sacrificing space or aesthetics.

Technical Details of Black Box LMC280 Series Fast Ethernet Industrial Media Converter - Single-Mode SC

• Product family — LMC280 Series Fast Ethernet Industrial Media Converter
• Networking standards — Compliant with 10/100Base-T(X) Ethernet on the copper side and 100Base-FX on the fiber side, enabling seamless interoperability with existing network equipment.
• Copper interface — 1 x 10/100Base-T(X) RJ45 port supporting auto-MDIX for automatic crossing of straight-through or crossover cables, simplifying installation and reducing cabling errors.
• Fiber interface — 1 x single-mode SC fiber port for 100Base-FX connections, enabling longer link distances and reduced susceptibility to EMI compared with copper-only solutions.
• Operation mode — Unmanaged, plug-and-play device designed for straightforward deployment in industrial environments without the overhead of network management systems.
• Power and enclosure — Rugged metal housing engineered for tough environments, with considerations for reliable power input and durable mounting in industrial cabinets or enclosures.
• Environmental resilience — Engineered to withstand the temperature and vibration common in manufacturing facilities, helping to maintain stable performance in challenging conditions.
• LED indicators — Visual status indicators to quickly verify power, copper link, and fiber link activity for fast on-site diagnostics.
• Security and isolation — Designed to minimize signal interference and maintain isolation between copper and fiber segments, contributing to safer and more reliable network operation in critical applications.
• Mounting options — Suitably configured for panel, rack, or wall installations to maximize flexibility in space-constrained industrial deployments.

how to install Black Box LMC280 Series Fast Ethernet Industrial Media Converter - Single-Mode SC

Installing the LMC280 Series is straightforward and designed to minimize downtime. Follow these simple steps to extend your network over fiber while preserving performance and reliability:

• Plan the layout — Identify the source of your 10/100Base-T(X) copper connection and the distant fiber endpoint. Confirm that the fiber type is single-mode with an SC connector to match the LMC280’s fiber port. Ensure the installation site has adequate ventilation to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
• Mount the device — Secure the media converter in a suitable enclosure, rack, panel, or wall-mount location. Use the provided mounting options to minimize vibration exposure and protect the unit from physical damage.
• Connect the copper side — Plug a standard Ethernet cable into the RJ45 copper port and connect it to your network device, switch, or router. When using auto-MDIX, either straight-through or crossover cables will work without manual rewiring.
• Connect the fiber side — Attach the single-mode SC fiber cable to the SC port on the device. Ensure the fiber connectors are clean and the link is oriented correctly for your network segment. Route cables cleanly to avoid bending radii that could impact signal integrity.
• Power up and verify — Connect the power supply to the unit and apply power. Observe the LED indicators to confirm that both copper and fiber links are active. If a link is not established, re-check connections and ensure the fiber path is properly terminated and aligned.
• Test the link — Perform a basic network test by transmitting data between devices across the converter. Verify throughput, latency, and stability, and monitor LED activity for sustained link health. Document the installation for future maintenance and troubleshooting.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the primary use of the Black Box LMC280 Series? — It is designed to extend Ethernet networks by converting 10/100Base-T(X) copper signals to 100Base-FX fiber, enabling longer distances, reduced EMI exposure, and improved reliability in industrial environments.
• Does this device require configuration? — No; the LMC280 Series is an unmanaged, plug-and-play media converter. It works out of the box with minimal setup, making it ideal for quick deployments on busy factory floors.
• What kind of fiber does it use? — The model features a single-mode SC fiber port suitable for 100Base-FX connections, offering longer reach and lower attenuation compared with multi-mode options in many industrial scenarios.
• Can I mount it in a panel or on a DIN rail? — The LMC280 Series is designed for flexible mounting in industrial cabinets and enclosures, with options that typically support panel, wall, or rack installations suitable for space-constrained environments.
• Is the device protected against harsh industrial conditions? — Yes, the design emphasizes rugged construction and reliable operation in environments with dust, vibration, and temperature fluctuations common to manufacturing facilities.